How to Message a Private Account on Instagram (Without Following)

Quick Tips

• Search for the username directly in your message inbox. This might land your message in a message request folder, but it’s a way in.
• If the private account has a public story, you can reply directly with a message, even without following.
• If they have a private account, they likely value their privacy. Keep your message polite and professional.

Message a Private Account on Instagram

There are three ways to message a private account on Instagram, whether you follow them or not. Let’s go through them all.

Note: The steps are similar for iPhone and Android users. So, regardless of your device, follow along.

1. Use the Messages Page

Step 1: Open Instagram > tap the Messages icon at the top right corner.

Step 2: Tap the username of the person you want to message in the search bar.

Step 3: Type your message and click Send.

Also Read: How to see your old Instagram bio

2. Message a Private Account on Instagram Without Following Them

Step 1: Open Instagram and open the profile you want to message.

Step 2: Tap the three dots at the top right corner.

Step 3: Next, tap Send message.

Step 4: Type your message and tap Send.

3. Follow the Account and Message

If you see the ‘You can’t message this account unless they follow you’ text while trying to message someone, the last option is to follow them and then send a message.

Step 1: Open Instagram > go to the account you want to message > tap Follow.

Step 2: Once they accept your follow request, message them from their profile or the Messages page.

Also read: How to contact Instagram to get support or report a problem

FAQs